Expert: Joe Turner - 3/3/2008

Question
i hada concrete driveway put in last september . i sealed it with a sealant cure after 4 weeks .i had not used the driveway until the sealant was on and dry . weve had a couple of snow falls lately but when i have cleaned  the snow off the driveway the found concrete  crumbling all over .it has small deep areas chipping out as well .
what is up with all that . the driveway is newish .

Answer
Here are the possibilities:
1. The sealant was put on before the concrete was thoroughly dry. I suspect this is the reason for the condition of the concrete.
2. The mix of the concrete might have too much sand or other filler. That will make it brittle.
Find a concrete expert in your area and get the concrete tested. This will give you the best answer. If the contractor made a mistake, ask for a new driveway and take him to court if he refuses the first time you ask. If you made the mistake with the sealant, call the contractor and ask how he repair the damage.
JT